NSCN withdraws threat to Naga candidates

The cease-fire between the NSCN (I-M) and the security forces has been on for nearly six months now.

The resolution, passed by so-called "ministers" of the insurgent group, threatened "capital punishment" to anyone filing nomination papers in the coming elections. Stern punishment was also announced for those who participated in the elections in other ways.

According to Home Ministry sources, the Centre warned the militants that it would call off the cease-fire, leaving the army and other security forces free to resume offensive operations, if they did not withdraw the threats.

Though the NSCN has not called off its poll "boycott", it has promised not to attempt to enforce it through violence.

A statement signed by both Isak and Muivah now says they do not approve the resolution of the "Council of Kilonsers" and emphasises the "non-use of force against any person participating in the elections."

"It is a major climb-down," a Home Ministry official said. The Ministry has welcomed the latest statement from the "collective leadership" of the organisation.

In a statement, the Ministry said the government was committed to solving all issues through peaceful dialogue with the concerned interest groups.

It also called upon the people of Nagaland to participate in the elections freely and without fear.

The resolution issued by the NSCN (I-M) council of "ministers" had gone against the ground rules for the cease-fire, on which both sides had agreed only a few weeks ago.

The rules prohibited the insurgents from intimidating people.

They are also "banned" from moving about in uniform or with fire-arms.